Where was Ice Cold in Alex filmed?
1958
City Locations
Borehamwood (UK), Tripoli (Libya)
Location Types
Film Studio
Location Styles
Desert, 40's, Foreign
About Ice Cold in Alex
The 1958 British war movie Ice Cold in Alex takes viewers on an exciting journey through the Western Desert battle of World War II. This movie's story comes from Christopher Landon's book of the same name, and it shows how terrible war really is.
The book's main character is Captain Anson, an English officer who is tired and about to lose it because of drinking too much. Charged with going through the harsh desert landscape alongside his stalwart Sergeant Major, Tom, in an ambulance bound for the British lines in Alexandria, North Africa. The movie shows their dangerous trip through areas full of mines and German military advances.
Ice Cold in Alex is praised for stressing character growth and its interesting plot. The story's main idea is Captain Anson's mental and physical trip. This makes it more than just a war movie. It's a narrative about perseverance, fortitude, and steadfast determination to persevere despite hardship.
The film's title, Ice Cold in Alex, refers to Captain Anson's promise of ice-cold beer in Alexandria, symbolizing optimism and determination to complete the lengthy journey. This theme runs through the movie, building suspense for the characters and viewers.
The unique thing about Ice Cold in Alex is that it is based on a true story, which makes the plot seem more real. The movie's unforgettable scenes of drama, tension, and human interaction have made it a classic war drama. Both critics and audiences have praised its high-octane action and deep story complexity.
Ice Cold in Alex Locations
Ice Cold in Alex is a great example of a movie in which the setting is very important to the story. Captain Anson and his crew's hard journey was filmed in several different landscapes, which made the action-packed story seem more real.
Most of the scenes were filmed on-site in Libya, which gave the movie's scenes of fighting in the desert a real feel. Not only did the huge desert views and hot sun become backgrounds, but they also became players in the story, making it more intense and difficult. Notably, the Tripoli local council offices on Albaladia Street in Tarabulus are shown in some scenes, which gives the story more depth and realism.
Several scenes were filmed at the Associated British Elstree Studios in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, England. The famous "quicksand" scene was made in the studio's fake bog frozen with snow.
People who like movies and people who are interested in history should both go see these filming sites. You can see the beautiful scenery in Libya used as a backdrop for the movie, or you can go to the famous Elstree Studios in England, known as the birthplace of many great movies.
The quicksands scene in Ice Cold in Alex
Elstree Film Studios, Shenley Rd, Borehamwood, UK
Captain van der Poel (Anthony Quayle) attempts to escape from the others but unfortunately falls into quicksand. The audience watches nervously as he sinks beneath the surface, encapsulating the danger and unpredictability of the desert terrain.
Elstree Film Studios, located just 20 minutes from central London, is a premier destination for film, television, and commercial productions. With a history spanning over 90 years, it has been the location for iconic films such as Alfred Hitchcock's "Blackmail" and "The Dam Busters." The state-of-the-art studio remains home to top British TV shows and has positioned itself as London's number-one film and television studio.
To visit Elstree Film Studios, take a train to Elstree & Borehamwood station from London St Pancras. Upon arrival, it's a short bus ride or a 25-minute walk to the studios. Alternatively, driving from Central London via the A1 motorway is straightforward, and parking is available on-site. The studios are well-signposted, making them easy to find for visitors.
Conclusion
Ice Cold in Alex is an action movie that uses the places it was shot to enhance the story and pull the viewer into it. The setting, mostly in the wide fields of Libya, makes the story more believable and strengthens the characters' pain. The harsh deserts and busy cities of Tripoli are not only used as backgrounds but also play a big part in the story.
The quicksand scene's emotional drama and technical skill, which was recorded at the famous Elstree Studios in England, make it stand out. The studio-made fake bog added an unexpected element of danger, showing how unpredictable the desert is.
To sum up, Ice Cold in Alex is a great example of how a movie's setting can greatly affect its story. Any fan or history buff would love to visit these filming sites, which provide a real link to this classic war movie.